'Tackle invisible threat of indoor pollution'
Modern life traps us within four walls, transforming our homes and workplaces into hidden peril zones. Our daily routines and commonplace products stealthily build up indoor pollutants, sometimes more hazardous than those we encounter outdoors.
Alarmingly, indoor air pollution can be up to 100 times more intense, affecting over 700 million individuals across India alone. While the smog of the outside world is evident, indoor pollution remains an elusive menace, its dangers magnified by relentless exposure. The pressing imperative to address this invisible threat cannot be overstated.
The World Health Organisation has underscored indoor air pollution as a critical public health hazard, with pollutants penetrating our lungs more deeply than outdoor contaminants. Substances like carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, benzene, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter severely impair indoor air quality.
Carbon monoxide from kitchen gas burners depletes blood oxygen, leading to headaches and, in extreme cases, death. Formaldehyde in building materials and tobacco smoke irritate the respiratory system and can cause cancer with long-term exposure. Benzene, present in tobacco smoke and vehicle exhaust, is a carcinogen linked to leukaemia.
Nitrogen dioxide from gas stoves exacerbates respiratory issues, while particulate matter from cooking and smoking increases cardiovascular risks. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in paints and cleaning agents trigger serious health problems, including headaches and organ damage. In urban Indian homes and offices, indoor pollution frequently surpasses safe levels. Research from metropolitan areas reveals alarmingly high indoor PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels, averaging 250 µg/m³ during winter — well above the WHO's safe limit of 25 µg/m³.Traditional cooking practices and outdoor vehicle emissions exacerbate this issue. VOCs emitted from paints, cleaning agents and office equipment further complicate matters, with indoor VOC levels in urban offices five-10 times higher than outdoors. Additionally, biological pollutants like mould spores, dust mites and pet dander flourish in poorly ventilated, humid environments. The duration of exposure to indoor pollutants is key to assessing health risks. The WHO cautions that just 8 hours in high PM 2.5 environments (over 100 µg/m³) can trigger acute respiratory issues, particularly in children and the elderly. Prolonged exposure to levels above 35 µg/m³ is linked to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and diminished lung function. Research indicates that spending over 10 hours daily in polluted indoor settings greatly increases the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Balancing indoor time with fresh air is essential for maintaining health. Breaking up long stretches indoors by stepping outside for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours is highly beneficial. In densely populated cities, timing is the key; early mornings before 8 am or late evenings after 7 pm generally have lower outdoor pollution. Visiting parks or green spaces, where trees and plants enhance air quality, can further amplify the benefits, safeguarding against indoor pollution.
To elevate indoor air quality, choosing low-VOC or VOC-free products is crucial. This includes paints, cleaning agents, and furnishings that minimise harmful chemical emissions. In offices, opting for low-emission equipment, like energy star-rated devices, and using green-certified cleaning products can make a substantial difference. Natural cleaners such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon provide safe, effective alternatives to harsh chemicals. Embracing sustainability by avoiding synthetic fragrances, air fresheners and mosquito repellents in favour of natural alternatives like essential oils or beeswax candles can also enhance air quality. Choose furniture crafted from sustainable materials like bamboo or cork, steering clear of those with high formaldehyde emissions. Indoor plants such as spider plants, snake plants and peace lilies excel in absorbing VOCs and formaldehyde, enhancing air quality.
